The Great Wall of China – one of the seven wonders of the modern world



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Any visit to China will be incomplete without walking on the Great Wall of China. The Chinese say that if you do not visit the Great Wall at least once in your life, you are not really human.

The Great Wall of China is considered one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, being the largest man-made construction, with a length of 21.196 kilometers, although at present there are only about 5,000 kilometers still standing. Along the mountains located north of Beijing there are many wonderful sites for strolling around the Great Wall of China. But which of them are the best for a stroll around the Wall?

Here’s some information about the history of this amazing construction:

As we all know, the Great Wall of China was built to defend China’s northern border. It dates back to the years 770 – 256 BC., when the state emperors built defensive devices around the border. Therefore, you will find plenty of observation towers, lighthouse towers and various fortresses in different areas of the wall.

Over time, many Emperors from different dynasties have renovated and rebuilt the Great Wall. The greatest amount of work took place in the Ming dynasty about 500 years ago.

In recent decades, the Chinese government has worked hard to restore and maintain this invaluable cultural heritage. The most complex renovation was made at Badaling in 1957.

Sections of the Great Wall in Beijing:

In Beijing there are four sections of the Great Wall which are the most famous. Each of them has unique attractions. If you have enough time and money, we suggest you visit all those sections. Otherwise, choose one of them and enjoy the experience because we are sure it will be a memory you’ll never forget!

Great Wall of China – Badaling

The Badaling section underwent tremendous restoration. Here you will find travelers of all kinds – from  people in suits to ladies wearing high heels. This is a sign that Badaling is for everyone. After walking, we recommend that you return by cable car, as it’s the easiest way.

Badaling also has the majority of souvenir sellers. They tend to insist on visitors to buy from them, so do not be surprised that someone will follow you even a few meters to try to sell something to you.

Great Wall of China – Juyongguan

The Great Wall of Juyongguan is renowned for its strategic military significance. The best Chinese saying describing Juyongguan is  “one man guards the pass, and ten thousand enemies are unable to get through”.

Apart from its strategic location, Juyongguan is renowned for the beauty of the surrounding landscape. This part of the wall was built on a 15 km long valley, surrounded by mountains and forests. In fact, Juyongguan is considered one of the most scenic places near Beijing.

This wall section might be quite difficult to walk around. However, it is not as demanding as Simatai, which is the steepest. Even so, you must be properly equipped to properly walk through this section of the wall.

Great Wall of China – Simatai

It is said that Simatai is the most original, the quietest but also the most dangerous and spectacular section of the Great Wall of China.

And because Simatai is still in its original condition, you must be very careful when walking because there are so many bricks and ruin that can fall from moment to moment. However, if you want to visit the original wall that has not been touched for 500 years, this is where you have to go!

Great Wall of China – Mutianyu

Visiting the Great Wall on Mutianyu could be the best choice! It is well-restored, close to Beijing, not too crowded and does not require extraordinary physical effort. In addition, the surrounding landscape is beautiful throughout the year!

If you are feeling tired or are travelling with children, you can choose to travel by cable car. However, the only way you can get the true experience of the Great Wall of China is by foot!

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